R.I.P. Joe Sample

I am glad that I got to see him several times here at the Orchestra Hall.

Seems to be a very down to earth fella talked about playing an old player piano somewhere at a blues joint in the South Side Chicago way back when and here he is, playing a 9ft. Steinway grand.  CSO's house Steinway never sounded more grand with Sample's magic touch. He's much bolder and funkier live than on any of his records. 

Here's to Joe. I'll love you. 

Didn't know his music well, had some Crusaders albums

back when, this cd is certainly worth a listen. 

This is sooooo 90s but one of my fave from the past. 

U Turn with Take 6.

and another collaboration with Michael Franks: Leading me Back to You

my all time fave from Crusaders' 'Keep that Same Old Feeling'. Just love his solo at 2:33 on. he never had overly decorative style but with such a simplistic riff coupled with spot on timing, he says so much. He was one of the living piano player who I admired. 

Street Life with Randy Crawford: 1979

More recent gig with Randy.

And here's 'lock it down' from Happy Again as The Jazz Crusaders with Wayne Henderson and Wilton Felder. ( released  in '95 )